Image: India would prefer to face Australia in the semifinals fearing another loss / © English Jagran
After winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 by defeating New Zealand in the final, India’s victorious campaign had an interesting twist. Kuldeep Yadav revealed that the team preferred facing Australia in the semifinals rather than the final, fearing another heartbreak after losing the 2023 WTC and ODI World Cup finals to them. This time, however, India avenged those losses with a thrilling four-wicket win, powered by Virat Kohli’s brilliance.
India dominated Group A, winning all three matches, while Australia finished second in Group B due to rain-affected games. Despite a strong fight from the Aussies, India secured a place in the final, where they clinched the trophy after more than a decade. Kuldeep, who picked up seven wickets in five games, acknowledged that the team needed this victory, especially after a disappointing series loss to Australia earlier in 2025.
He also highlighted BCCI’s strict approach following the team’s poor performances, emphasizing that no player can take their place for granted due to emerging talent. Currently, Kuldeep is playing for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, with his next match being against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 30 in Vishakhapatnam.